Charles Kenneth Wilcox

Charles Kenneth Wilcox (Kenneth) passed away in his hometown of Boone, NC, among the company of family on January 7th, 2023.

Kenneth was born on January 28th, 1937, in Boone, NC to parents Charles Cole Wilcox and Julia Hollars Wilcox. His early years were consumed by a love of reading and learning that he carried with him throughout his life. He graduated from Appalachian State University in 1959 and quickly joined the family botanical business "Wilcox Drug Company" and seasonal Christmas greenery company "Appalachian Evergreens." Kenneth was dedicated to his work, enjoyed what he did, and highly valued each and every relationship he developed through multiple business ventures.

Kenneth worked ardently as an entrepreneur and even more enthusiastically as a servant to his community. He was genuinely passionate about improving the quality of life for the people of Watauga County and devoted a majority of his free time to tackling that challenge. He served multiple years on the Watauga County Hospital Board, the ASU Board of Trustees, as well as countless other local boards and organizations. As a founding member of High-Country Bank and a prominent real estate developer, Kenneth maintained his focus on the wellbeing of those in the county around him.

Recognized often, Kenneth humbly appreciated praise for his efforts but never expected it. His achievements and success were important to him, but his family took priority. When time allowed, Kenneth enjoyed and encouraged his family to gather in fellowship. He enjoyed traveling with close friends and making new ones abroad. He respected all, welcomed friends as family, and wanted to make the world a better place.

As a lifetime member of the First Baptist Church of Boone, Kenneth was saved and baptized as a teenager. He was a follower of Jesus Christ and took his responsibility as his family's spiritual leader seriously. He found camaraderie and companionship in multiple Sunday school classes throughout his life, and he loved and appreciated the members of each one.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years Gerry Brown Wilcox, his parents, his brother Gary "Butch" Wilcox, his sister Pat Wilcox Cook, and his son-in-law Dwayne Triplett.

He is survived by three children: daughter Kim Wilcox Davis (Glenn), son Chris Wilcox (Melanie), and daughter Laura Wilcox Pace (David); seven grandchildren: Seth Triplett (Kelly), Shane Triplett (Keana), Hannah T. Sprinkmann (Erik), Charlie Wilcox (Skylar), Berkley Wilcox, Cole Pace, and Oren Pace; six great-grandchildren: Kasen Triplett, Chance Triplett, Kenzlie Triplett, Everett Sprinkmann, Julia Sprinkmann, and Naomi Wilcox; and special friends Lucille Teague, Anita Mckinney, Morgan Smith, and Nick Welsh.

Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, January 14, 2023, at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church of Boone. Pastor Roy Dobyns and Rev. Glenn Davis will officiate. Entombment will follow at 2:00, at Mount Lawn Memorial Park and Gardens.

The family will receive friends Friday from 5:00 until 7:00, at First Baptist Church of Boone.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Boone, 375 W King St, Boone, NC 28607, Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation, 336 Deerfield Road, Boone, NC 28607, Amorem Hospice, www.amoremsupport.org or Kenneth was devoted to many charities, so please pick your passion project to honor him.

Online condolences may be sent to the Wilcox family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.